Nature. Adventure. Culture. History and Heritage. Maitum is Sarangani's cradle of civilization. Its rich history as well as astounding archeological finds, blended with some of the Philippines' best beaches, waterfalls, distinct biodiversity, mountain ranges, crystal clear rivers make Maitum truly a gem of the Celebes.

Maitum is home to the unique 2,000-year old anthropomorphic jars, an archaeological finding unparalled throughout Southeast Asia. These find were used as burial jars believed to be utilized during the Metal Age in the Philippines around 5 B.C. to A.D. 225. The original jars are now housed at the National Musuem although there are replicas which can be viewed at the town hall.

Legend has it that a when a local princess fell in love with a neighboring Tboli warrior, the father of the princess violently opposed the relationship. The couple subsequently eloped and was not seen ever since. However, at the time of the couple's disappearance, the rivers stones in the place turned to black thus the place earned the moniker "Maitum" (black).

Maitum has a lot of caves that waiting to be explored. The waterfalls and pristine rivers offer an amazing respite from the tolls of urban life. Its thick and dense rainforests are ideal for trekking and backpacking. Hikers could take a glimpse of Maitum's varied wildlife which includes deers, wild boars, and tarsiers. After a day's adventure, visitors can cap it off with the White Water Tubing Adventure. A 1.6 km adventure around the refreshing waters of Pangi River.

The Celebes coastline of the town is a sanctuary of a wide range of turtle species. Tourists can observe hatchlings of Olive Ridley, Green, Hawksbill and Loggerhead turtles on several turtle sanctuaries on the villages fronting the Celebes Sea.

Maitum also offer a delicacy that is unique to their place. Women's organization as well as enterprising individual has been producing "marinated bangsi", flying fish which were half-dried on the sun and marinated with local spices. Rice coffee as well as other nutritious and healthy products are also offered by Cresings of Maitum, a thriving family business which endeavors to help indigents by providing employment as well as showcase the traditional delicacies of Maitum.

Maitum Jars

These artifacts are material evidence for the determination of Maguindanao pre-history and the Filipino people in general. Discovered in 1991 at Pinol Cave, the anthropomorphic (human-shaped) burial jars were products of local artists and potters from hundreds of generations. A diorama of these artifacts is found in the municipal hall. The artifacts are on exhibit, entitled "Faces of Maitum: An Exhibition of Anthropomorphic Pottery," at the National Museum.

Whitewater Tubing

Take the challenge, take the plunge! Pangi River's 1.6-km. tube ride in barangay New La Union is among the most exciting adventures in Mindanao. Tourists can enjoy the cool and clean Pangi River aboard an inflated tube and experience the thrilling rapids and drops. Furthermore, visitors and guests can also enjoy trekking and commune with nature along the way. The resort offers overnight cottages and tents.

Diving in Maitum

Maitum has a biologically diverse marine area with one of the best diving environments. Mabay Reef is situated some two hours off the coast of Maitum. At 40 ft. deep, this offshore reef is home to weird and unusually huge size cardinal fish (Apogon sp.). At "Barracuda Highway," as many as five hundred of this fish can be found in constant patrol. About 5 km. to the west is Kalaong Reef. It is home to the solitary grey black tip reef sharks. Water visibility is good all-year-round. Turtles can be seen since the Sarangani coastline is a major breeding area of four species of sea turtles.

Pawikan Sanctuary

Visit the pawikan nesting and study site in barangay Old Poblacion. The sanctuary has freed over 40 adults and more than 6,000 hatchlings to the wild.

Bangsi Festival

Maitum toasts its One Town, One Product – the marinated flying fish – with Bangsi Festival during the last week of January. The celebration is a tribute to fisherfolk as well. Maitum also celebrates Sto. Nino Patronal Fiesta in January.

Binuyugan Festival

Binuyugan Festival is a celebration of thanksgiving. It is celebrated every 4th week of May. Binuyugan comes from the word "buyog" meaning, all plans and activities of Maitum are guided by the Almighty Father.

L'muog Festival

Every 3rd week of December, Tbolis converge on the seashore, take a bath, reenact their old practices and old way of living. They demonstrate their old way catching fish.

Going to Maitum will take about an hour and half ride from Gen. Santos City aboard air-conditioned public utility vehicles along a well-paved highway.